Things to Do in San Diego - Top Sights

By Betsy Malloy, About.com Guide

The first European to set foot in California was the Spanish explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, who stepped on shore near this spot in in 1542. He's the guy they made this statue to look like - and named the park after. We don't know if Cabrillo climbed all the way up to the top of this promontory or not, but people who make up here nowadays get some of the best views of San Diego, looking across the Bay and back toward downtown.

Besides the great views, there's a historic lighthouse, a visitor center, some nice tide pools down below and good whale-watching in the winter.

Pros and Cons

Much of the year, there's enough moisture in the air to obscure the views - and it's a long drive out from downtown if you can't see anything. But on a clear day- it's brilliant.

More About Cabrillo National Monument

If you need more information, check the Complete Guide to Cabrillo National Monument. It will tell you about hours, how to get tickets, admission discounts, how to get there and the best time to go.

See where it is on a map. It's the orange pin.